Q: There are 20 windows in my house, but four of them are not dual-pane windows, and I’m now debating whether to replace the four or not. They’re all aluminum frame with single panes of glass; they don’t get direct sunlight so they don’t seem to heat up very much. How can I tell whether it would be economically efficient to replace them? Will installing dual-pane windows be worthwhile and save me money on my utility bill?
A: If you’re interested in checking this out yourself, you can buy a thermal imaging gun for about $40 at a hardware or auto parts store. Then, on a really hot day when the sun is shining on the house, aim your gun at one of your double-pane windows to measure its temperature. Then do the same test on the single-pane windows. If there’s not much difference in temperature, it might not be worthwhile replacing the windows. If the windows are not on the west side of the house and don’t get much direct sun, your home may not benefit that much.
For more do-it-yourself tips, go to rosieonthehouse.com. An Arizona home building and remodeling industry expert for 25 years, Rosie Romero is the host of the syndicated Saturday morning Rosie on the House radio program, heard locally from 8-11 a.m. on KNST-AM (790) in Tucson and KGVY-AM (1080) and -FM (100.7) in Green Valley. Call 888-767-4348.
